Make your own DIY Face Masks with everyday household ingredients. Here's a list of the 10 most common and how you can use them.
Healthy Habits
DIY Spa Night at Home
Skin Care, Gift Guides, Self Care, Healthy Habits2 CommentsSafe Cleaning Solution Combinations
Healthy Habits, Home Care, Cleaning1 CommentMIXING CERTAIN CLEANING SOLUTIONS CAN BE DANGEROUS.
Due to increased public concern for COVID-19, cleaning supplies have been flying off the shelves left & right. It’s incredibly important to keep your environment clean. We want to make sure you do this safely.
HERE ARE PRODUCTS THAT YOU SHOULD NEVER COMBINE.
Isopropyl Alcohol + Bleach
It’s literally … chloroform.
Risks include damage to the nervous system, eyes, skin, lungs, kidneys & liver. High levels of these chemicals may result in death.
Vinegar + Bleach
This combination creates toxic chorine & chloramine vapors.
Risks include chemical burns & irritation to the eyes & lungs.
Hydrogen Peroxide + Vinegar
Creates parecetic acid.
High concentrations of these two chemicals may irritate skin, eyes, nose, throat & lungs. It also has the potential to become a corrosive substance.
Ammonia + Bleach
Creates toxic chloramine vapors.
Risks include respiratory damage & eyes, nose & throat burns. Has the potential to form hydrazine (an explosive chemical compound).
Do not to mix drain cleaners
As some are alkaline & others are acidic. The combination of the two creates a lot of heat which can result in damage to PVC pipes or extremely high pressures that can burst pipes.
Baking Soda + Vinegar
No real risks in combining these two, other than the potential mess… But Baking soda & Vinegar essentially neutralize each other. Resulting in an ineffective cleaning formula.
If you are unable to find cleaning supplies at your grocery stores, we urge you to try some holistic, home-made cleaning solutions. While it may not be the most convenient, they are great temporary alternatives. You probably even have some of the necessary ingredients in your pantry!
Step 1.
Combine One part White Vinegar, One part Water, Lemon Rind and Rosemary Sprigs.
Step 2.
Once done, you can use the natural solution to remove hard water stains, clean trash cans, wipe away wall smudges & whatever else your heart desires.
Step 3.
Besides a fresh scent, the lemon rind may actually help boost cleaning power.
Caution: Do not use acidic cleaners on granite, as they will etch the stone.
The original recipe and article can be found here.
Social Distancing 101
Healthy Habits, COVID-19CommentWHAT IN THE HECK IS SOCIAL DISTANCING?
WHAT IS SOCIAL DISTANCING?
Put simply, the idea is to maintain a distance between you and other people — in this case, at least six feet.
That also means minimizing contact with people. Avoid public transportation whenever possible, limit nonessential travel, work from home and skip social gatherings — and definitely do not go to crowded bars and sporting arenas.
Other measures include working from home if possible, organizing meetings via video calls rather than doing them in person and avoiding unnecessary use of public transport.
It is also recommended that you avoid physical contact with others in social situations, including handshakes, hugs & kisses.
THE BASICS.
SHUT OFF THE NEWS
If you've been glued to your screens for the latest COVID-19 updates, this is for you. Taking a break from the stream of negative reports can help reduce stress and anxiety and give your brain room to for positive thoughts and ideas.
FOR EMBRACING YOUR INNER CHILD: This adult coloring book
DO HOME PROJECTS
There always seems to be something to do around the house. Kick those ideas and plans into gear with some time at home! Home projects can be anything from remodeling, to building some new furniture. No matter what plans you have, now is the perfect time to get a jumpstart!
BINGE ON FAVORITE SHOWS
Now is the perfect time to get caught up on your favorite shows.
Some of our favorites:
Grey’s Anatomy (Netflix & Hulu)
Parks and Recreation (Netflix)
Breaking Bad (Netflix)
Westworld (HBO Go/Now)
Supernatural (Netflix)
This is Us (Hulu)
Weeds (Netflix)
Unbreakable Kimmi Schmidt (Netflix)
Bates Motel (Netflix)
The Good Place (Netflix)
MOVE AROUND AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE
Self-isolating doesn't mean sitting around on the couch all day. Thanks to YouTube, Pinterest, and other sites, you can get a thorough workout from home. (Health also has plenty of free, no-equipment fitness videos, too.) Just 30 minutes of any kind of heart-pumping workout can significantly reduce stress and it'll also make you feel busy and accomplished.
SPRING CLEANING
Thursday is the official start to spring, which means some spring cleaning is never a bad option! Clean out the garage, closet attic or whatever else needs a little refresh!
CATCH UP ON SLEEP
You read that right! Trying to get those recommended 8 hours of sleep can be difficult between work, school , kids and whatever else life throws at you. Being home allows you to take those guilt-free and much needed naps to get get yourself feeling your best!
FOR WHEN YOU’RE FEELING NOSTALGIC:
A stunning photo book
KNOCK OUT SOME TO-DOS ON YOUR LIST
Sitting in front of the TV for days and binging on HBO will probably make you stir-crazy. A better way to stay active and focused? Get on that to-do list you've been putting off forever.
GET SOME FRESH AIR
Get outside and enjoy some fresh air! It is important to keep a safe distance of 6 feet if you are walking with a buddy, but don’t let that stop you from getting your blood circulating and enjoying the outdoors.
There is plenty of opportunity to walk or even take a hike.
FOR TAKING SELFIES WITH YOUR PUP: This Shark Tank product
Back to baking
Grab that mixer and take your mind into the kitchen to bake up some delicious cookies, cupcakes and more! Now is the perfect time to try out those recipes you haven’t had time to get to.
Arts and Crafts
Not just for the kiddos. Stocking up on supplies for some DIY crafting is a great at-home plan! Creating a space for you to get creative and let your imagination flow can be a great way to keep busy.
GOT KIDS? HERE'S SOME FUN WAYS TO KEEP THEM BUSY.
Go for a walk or a hike.
Go for a bike ride.
Go outside, no matter what the weather. If it's nice outside, play catch or hide-and-seek.
Movie theaters are limiting the number of tickets they sell in order to practice good social distancing, but with DisneyPlus, Netflix and Amazon, you have plenty of options at home. Make it even more fun by making some special treats to share.
Speaking of special treats, get your kids in the kitchen. You'll be making lots of meals while at home, so why not let the kids share in the "fun?" Give them the run of the pantry and fridge. Do give a few limits though. Like they have to have at least one healthy item.
For the past decade, the Racine Art Museum has invited artists to make their best creations out of marshmallow Peeps. Check out the photos for inspiration, and make your own.
Hand over your phone to let the kids take photos of the signs of spring they see popping up around the neighborhood.
Let the kids collect a few of those signs of spring they see — dandelions, blades of grass, flowers if they're on your property — and make a nature scrapbook out of them.
Fly a kite.
Set up a tent in the backyard.
Dig into those toys, puzzles and games that have gotten buried under beds, in basements and at the bottom of toy boxes. You might find some treasures that will fill up some of those hours. If not, set them aside to donate.
Bubbles are fun for all ages. You can go old-school and just blow some bubbles in the backyard. You can get a hula hoop and a wading pool and make some giant ones.
Grab blankets, chairs and pillows and build a fort.
Make a homemade pinata out of papier mache, fill it with candy and break that thing open.
Start cleaning up your yard and planning any gardening projects. If you have seeds on hand, start planting when the weather cooperates.
Kids love acting, singing and putting on shows, especially if they have an audience. Be that audience; karma will reward your sacrifice.
Comic books and graphic novels are mainstream nowadays. And they're a great way to encourage your kids to read. When they've gotten some inspiration through reading some of their favorites, encourage them to make their own.
You may not be able to visit your favorite paint-your-own pottery place, but you can find some old mugs or bowls to have the kids paint at home.
Clean out your closet. But hold off on the donations. Let your kids play dress-up for a few weeks. If they lose interest, that's cool. That's the time to donate. Otherwise, let them keep a few favorites for their dress-up collection.
STAY CALM.
Stay calm, stay sane. Hopefully we will get through this soon.
Keep your hands clean, moisturized & off your beautiful face!
Hand Care, Healthy Habits, COVID-19Comment
WASH OFTEN TO STAY HEALTHY.
You can help you & your loved ones stay healthy by washing your hands often (and washing them well), especially during these key times when you are more likely to spread germs.
These key times include:
Before, during & after preparing food
Before eating food
Before & after caring for someone at home who is sick
Before & after treating a cut or wound
After using the toilet
After changing diapers or cleaning up a child who has used the toilet
After blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing
After touching an animal, animal feed or animal poo
After handling pet food or pet treats
After touching garbage
WASH YOUR HANDS THE RIGHT WAY.
Washing your hands is easy, and it’s one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs. Clean hands can stop germs from spreading from one person to another & throughout an entire community—from your home and workplace to childcare facilities & hospitals.
Follow these five steps every time.
Wet your hands with clean, running water (warm or cold), turn off the tap & apply soap.
Lather your hands by rubbing them together with the soap. Lather the backs of your hands, between your fingers & under your nails.
Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice.
Rinse your hands well under clean, running water.
Dry your hands using a clean towel or air dry them.
CDC recommendation:
Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
USE HAND SANITIZER WHEN YOU CANT USE SOAP & WATER
(GOOD LUCK FINDING IT).
Washing hands with soap & water is the best way to get rid of germs in most situations. If soap & water are not readily available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Check if the sanitizer contains at least 60% alcohol by looking at the product label.
Sanitizers can quickly reduce the number of germs in many situations. However,
Sanitizers do not get rid of all types of germs.
Hand sanitizers may not be as effective when hands are visibly dirty or greasy.
Hand sanitizers might not remove harmful chemicals like pesticides & heavy metals.
How to use hand sanitizer
Apply the gel product to the palm of one hand.
Rub your hands together.
Rub the gel over all the surfaces of your hands & fingers until your hands are dry. This should take around 20 seconds.
How to Make Your Own Hand Sanitizer
If you can’t purchase hand sanitizer because it’s all sold out, you can make your own at home. It will also require a trip to the drug store (or your favorite online marketplace) to pick up a few ingredients. “Recipes” for your own hand sanitizer may vary slightly. The most important thing to remember is you need to create a mixture that’s at least 60% alcohol.
INGREDIENTS
91% or higher isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) or ethanol alcohol
Aloe vera gel or glycerin
Essential oils (optional)
Bowl and spoon
Storage bottle or container
Funnel (optional)
Step 1.
Combine ⅔ cup of 91% or higher alcohol with ⅓ cup of aloe vera gel or glycerin in a bowl and stir until blended.
Getting your ratios right in this step is critical. By combining two parts of 91% or higher alcohol with one part softening agent, you’ll land at about 60% alcohol content in the final product. Hand sanitizer that’s less than 60% alcohol will not be effective.
You can also increase the alcohol content to about 68% by combining ¾ cup of 91% or higher alcohol with ¼ cup of aloe or glycerin. Aloe or glycerin helps prevent the alcohol from drying out your skin.
Step 2.
Optional: Add 5-10 drops of essential oils to reduce the smell of alcohol.
If you’re sensitive to the strong smell of alcohol, you can add several drops of essential oils to your hand sanitizer. Do not add too much essential oil or you will dilute the alcohol content of your sanitizer below the 60% alcohol threshold. It’s important to note the active ingredient here is the alcohol, not the essential oils.
Step 3.
Bottle your hand sanitizer mixture.
Once your hand sanitizer is mixed and complete, pour the mixture into a container or bottle for use. You can purchase an empty bottle with a squirt top or pump from your local drug store or recycle a washed-out hand sanitizer bottle. If you have a funnel on hand, it can make it easier to pour the hand sanitizer into your storage containers. Once it’s bottled, your hand sanitizer is ready to use!
The original recipe and article can be found here.
DON'T FORGET TO KEEP MOISTURIZING.
Healthy Skin Month: Tips for that Beautiful Face & Scrumptious Lips
Healthy Habits, Lip Care, Face Care2 CommentsEVERYDAY TIPS FOR HEALTHY SKIN.
👩 For That Beautiful Face 👩
Wash your face when waking, before bed & after sweating.
Washing when you wake up in the morning removes the dirt & bacteria that settle on your face while sleeping. Before bed, you want to remove all makeup & grime, such as smog, smoke, or dirt. Need we explain why washing your face is good to do after sweating?
IMPORTANT! Gently wash your face.
Gentle cleansing helps skin look its absolute best. We’re serious!
To gently cleanse your face, wet it with lukewarm water. Then apply your cleanser of choice, applying the cleanser in a circular motion with your fingers. Complete your routine by rinsing off the cleanser & patting your skin dry with your favorite soft, clean towel.
Wear sunnies to stop under-eye wrinkles. 😎
Use a jade roller for your under eye bags.
Sweat it out! 🚴♀️🧘♀️
GET CAFFEINATED TO LOOK WIDE AWAKE.
Your best bet when it comes to getting rid of puffiness? Try a shot of caffeine – and we don’t mean the one in your morning latte. Caffeine constricts the vessels beneath the eye, which are responsible for causing the darker appearance.
Look for an eye cream with caffeine near the top of the ingredient list – that way you know it plays a starring role in the formula.
Massage your face for circulation.
A Face massage can boost circulation & help tone the muscles in your face & neck. Spending even just
5 minutes a night will help improve skin’s elasticity.
Just like your body, the muscles in your face can become lazy with age. Adding this simple step to your routine will hugely improve the firmness of your skin.
E X F O L I A T E ! E X F O L I A T E ! E X F O L I A T E ! E X F O L I A T E ! E X F O L I A T E !
Exfoliate for smaller pores. Enlarged pores are actually one of the most common skin complaints for men & women.
Pores appear larger when they're filled with dirt, oil, dead skin cells & keratin (a protein that lives on the surface of skin). Remove that yucky build-up so your pores have the ability to shrink.
To clear out the gunk, exfoliate 2-3x a week. Reach for a gentle exfoliator–like our Coconut Ambre Vanille Body & Face Scrub with activated charcoal. The charcoal will help you suck out the yuck. Hello, glowing skin!
👄 For Those Scrumptious Lips 👄
Coat Your Lips With a Lip Butter Before Applying Lipstick.
This will ensure you that your lips are moisturized in spite of the Lipstick. Apply a Lip Butter for a moisturizing pout or even one of our Moisturizing Lip Tints. If you choose to wear Lipstick, avoid Matte (as they tend to dry out lips). Try a Crème or Satin finish.
Or TRY one of our delicious Lip Tints!
S C R U B - A - D U B ! S C R U B - A - D U B D U B ! S C R U B - A - D U B D U B ! S C R U B - A - D U B D U B !
EXFOLIATE FOR soft, smoochable lips
Lip scrubbing helps you to get rid of dead skin cells and leftover makeup. It helps your lip balm penetrate and re-balances that lipid layer. There are two steps to effectively exfoliate your lips:
Using a damp cloth or soft-bristled toothbrush, gently rub off any leftover makeup residue, dead or dry skin. This technique will also boost circulation to your lips.
2. Once you’re done sloughing your lips, smooth on a hydrating lip butter or conditioner to lock in moisture. When going outdoors, make sure to apply a lip butter that has an SPF to protect your lips from the harmful sun (we recommend ours)!
Moisturize with Aloe Vera …
You can purchase pure aloe vera gel or even crack a leaf from an aloe plant in your home for this remedy. Aloe vera has soothing & healing properties, helping lips to look their best.
OR with Vitamin E!
If you have vitamin E capsules, you can simply cut one open & apply the product right to your lips. Vitamin E boosts circulation & may help generate new skin cells, making your lips softer.
Quit LICKING your lips WHEN THEY FEEL DRY.
apply A GENEROUS AMOUNT OF lip butter before bed.
🍋 Wake up lips with citrus 🍋
Using a few drops of lemon juice, you can make your lips appear brighter and slough off dead skin. Just rub the lemon juice on to your skin and watch your skin brighten up before your eyes. You can also try using our SPF 30 Grapefruit, Citrus or Key Lime Lip Butter for this purpose as well 🥰
Have any suggestions? Leave your advice in the comment section below!
Healthy Skin Month: Why Your Skin Microbiome is Essential for a Beautiful, Healthy Glow
Healthy Habits, Face Care, Skin CareComment
WHAT IS SKIN MICROBIOME?
Just like your gut, your skin is home to an eco-system of billions of beneficial living microorganisms (bacteria, fungi and viruses) which live in and on your skin. This eco-system is our skin microbiome. A well-balanced microbiome works to keep your skin healthy and in good condition.
How does your microbiome affect your skin?
Your skin microbiome impacts what your skin looks and feels like day-to-day. A diverse microbiome is associated with skin health and can lead to more glowing, radiant and healthy-looking skin. The skin microbiome can assist in wound healing, limits allergen and UV radiation exposure, minimizes oxidative damage and helps keep the skin barrier intact and well hydrated. It also fights off threats by external factors such as bacterial transfer from external surfaces, certain cosmetic products, detergents and antimicrobials such as hand sanitizers. Keeping these microorganisms in balance may help to protect skin from certain conditions.
What happens if your microbiome is out of balance?
Inflammation can arise as the result of an imbalance or lack of diversity of the microbiome and manifest as acne, eczema or rosacea. When the balance shifts towards the bad bacteria, skin irritation or blemishes can develop.
How to nurture your skin biome for glowing, healthy skin
Nurturing your microbiome starts with being gentle to your skin. Here are some hints:
1. Stop using harsh soaps. Our growing soap usage may overly strip the skin which leads to redness, sensitivity and dryness. Avoid antibacterial soaps and eliminate harsh synthetic chemicals like sulfates (SLS/SLES). Sulfates are harsh detergents used for their foam-building properties and can cause skin irritation. Choose natural soaps for a kinder, gentler cleansing. Natural Inspirations has two gentle soap options that you might like — a bar soap and a liquid soap. They are sulfate free and still deliver a beautiful, moisturizing, skin-loving lather.
2. Don’t wash too often. Our obsession with cleanliness may be doing more harm than good for our skin microbiome. Clean only when you really need to – before bed to remove makeup, after a workout or an especially sweaty day -- to help maintain the skin’s natural oils and microbial balance.
3. Don’t use hot water in your shower or bath. Hot water washes away skin’s protective oils and can damage your skin cells which can cause broken capillaries and rashes. Rather, aim for lukewarm water and limiting your time to 10-15 minutes.
4. Hydrate – inside and out. Regular underhydrating can negatively affect your skin’s microbiome. Drink at least 64 ounces of water a day and use a microbiome-pampering moisturizer with humectants like glycerin. We have wonderful moisturizers that will LOVE your skin!
5. Sweat often. There is evidence that sweat may contribute to healthy skin bacteria.
6. Go natural. Wear natural clothing fibers like cotton, linen, hemp and bamboo to keep the skin flora in balance with other parts of your body including the armpits and groin area. Man-made synthetic fibers like polyester provide a welcoming environment for odor-causing bacteria and may harbor bacteria that are out of balance with the normal skin ecosystem.
Our skin is the largest organ of our body.
Most of us don’t give it enough credit for the incredibly efficient, exceedingly complex protective job it does for us. Anything we can do to create a healthy environment for our skin microbiome will help us to look our positively glowing best!
